Oregon: Roaming in the Painted Hills

During most mornings we make a point to take our time, taking full advantage of this slower pace of life we currently find ourselves in. However, on this particular day, I couldn't help but leap out of bed, eager to hit the road, as we were headed towards the Painted Hills.

Driving through many winding roads, I held my breath with anticipation as we drew closer and closer to the scene. As we arrived, the desert put on a colourful show, catching my first glimpse of the surrounding hills with streaks of reds, oranges, and yellows. I exhaled with relief — it was as beautiful as I had hoped it would be.

At first glimpse, it may look like Mother Nature had taken a paintbrush and stroke these hills with watercolour paint, but the explanation behind these unique formations is pure science. Over time, layers of volcanic ash, soil, minerals and plant materials have eroded, causing the unique colouring that makes this place so special.

One by one we walked the various trails that all lead to an impressive display. Some trails allowed you to get up close and personal with the colourful clay hills, whilst others gifted you with panoramic postcard views of the Painted Ridge.

It's days like these that I am in complete awe of Oregon — a wondrous state where the scenery can swiftly change in a breathtaking manner. One moment its that of vibrant cobalt blue lakes, the next, its that of dry and dusty desert roads. Roads that lead you to a place so out of this world, you may just feel like you've landed on Mars.